GPS World

Author: GPS World Staff

  • Parsec Combines Telit Technology with Micro-Mini Modules to Deliver Tiny GPS Receivers

    Parsec Technologies, Inc., today announced that the company’s Micro-Mini PTA/PT family of GNSS/GPS receiver modules seamlessly integrates with the Telit Wireless Solutions Jupiter SE880 three-dimensional system-in-a-package (3D-SIP) to enable what it calls the world’s smallest- to-date, commercial-class, low-cost GPS L1 receiver.

    By combining a PTA/PT family module with the Jupiter SE880 3D-SIP, OEMs and integrators are able to deliver a location-based service product with a GPS L1 receiver in a landed form factor of 20 x 20 x 6 millimenters, or 20 x 10 x 6 millimeters, depending upon component orientation. This contrasts with landed GPS receiver sizes integrating a passive ceramic patch antenna that measure 25 x 25 millimeters, and which Parsec says don’t match the GNSS/GPS frequencies in performance despite being four times the surface area.

    With the Parsec/Jupiter combination, integrators can design LBS-critical products with exceptional user experience in applications with severe use, such as obstructed satellite view and high path loss, including indoors, urban canyons, wearables, smart watches, vehicle under-dash on board diagnostics (OBD) devices, metal containers and aircraft fuselage asset tracking, and M.2/next-generation form factor (NGFF) products.

    Receivers combining Parsec PTA/PT Family and Telit Jupiter SE880 modules deliver good user experience in finished LBS critical products without sacrificing design flexibility, ease of implementation, or cost, Parsec said. The combination is fully vetted and “bulletproof” in providing a rewarding design experience making RF work reliably, passing end-product regulatory compliance testing without re-test.

    According to Michael A. Neenan, CEO and founder of Parsec, customers are future-proofing their LBS critical products when they select a Parsec PTA/PT family for integration with the Telit Jupiter SE880 3D-SIP. PTA/PT family modules receive and amplify any GNSS system signal from 1560 to 1610 MHz, including GPS L1/L1C, with high radiated efficiency in any end product orientation.

    Telit Jupiter SE880 reference design kits will soon be equipped with the Parsec PTA/PT family module. OEMs and integrators can order GPS L1 receiver solutions today.

    The PTA/PT family of GNSS/GPS receiver Micro-Mini modules extends Parsec’s decade-long tradition of stretching the state-of-the-art in small size, ultra-linearity, miniscule energy usage, high gain, low noise, Any Voltage operation, Field-and-Forget reliability, low cost, and ease of integration/use.

  • XRS Teams with Samsung, Verizon on Trucking Fleet Package

    XRS Corporation, a mobile trucking intelligence company, has announced that Verizon is the official wireless provider for its new collaboration with Samsung Telecommunications America. The new product — NXT — creates what XRS says is the first integrated mobile device and software package designed specifically for the trucking industry.

    The new solution brings together powerful XRS compliance and performance tools with Samsung Mobile’s devices, XRS said. Now, NXT is powered by the Verizon 4G LTE network, which provides the platform with superior performance and speed.

    “Technology forces in the trucking industry have long been on converging paths, and our new NXT product — powered by XRS in collaboration with Verizon and Samsung Mobile – is a perfect example of how our industry is harnessing the power of technology to benefit drivers and fleet managers,” said Christian Schenk, senior vice president, XRS Corporation. “An integrated platform is the next evolution of convergence, and we are proud to be working with industry leaders like Samsung Mobile and Verizon to deliver the ultimate trucking intelligence solution.”

    NXT allows drivers and fleets to purchase select Samsung Mobile devices with an XRS trucking intelligence software subscription and ready for activation on the Verizon 4G LTE network. The first device available is the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0, priced at a $100 discount from its suggested retail value. The data plan and subscription cost is $54 per month, including $39 for the monthly XRS fee and $15 for the monthly wireless data fee. This charge covers all required subscriptions and data, including the Relay onboard hardware component, as well as FLX messaging, hours of service, electronic DVIR, IFTA state mileage reporting and more.

    “With the explosive growth of mobile electronic devices in the trucking industry, drivers have come to expect reliable and fast wireless service while they are on the road,” said Michael Toto, director of alternate channels for Verizon Enterprise Solutions. “This solution is one example of how Verizon is investing in the success of our channel partners as we collaborate to bring new innovative solutions to the market.”

    NXT also offers integration with many enterprise transportation products. Over time, the platform collaboration will expand to introduce additional components, including MDM and wearable products.

    The XRS trucking intelligence platform operates in both over-the-road and private carrier configurations, and is suitable for fleets of all sizes. XRS runs on certified smartphones, tablets and rugged handhelds that transmit vehicle and operator data through the cloud to a fleet management dashboard, helping companies to comply with current regulations and soon the pending Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate for electronic recording of a driver’s hours-of-service. Nearly 90 percent of drivers already use mobile devices while on the job.

    NXT was developed through the Samsung Solutions Exchange, a newly announced strategic engagement model from Samsung Mobile that delivers a range of end-to-end solutions that address real world business challenges. The program is aimed at achieving shared value across Samsung Mobile’s rapidly growing ecosystem of enterprise customers, sales channels and alliances.

    “NXT is a holistic solution for trucking that addresses performance, safety, and compliance challenges unique to the industry,” said Tim Wagner, vice president and general manager, enterprise business unit – Samsung Mobile. “Through the Samsung Solutions Exchange, we have worked closely with XRS and Verizon to enable a solution that leverages our respective strengths – which for us includes our robust suite of enterprise-grade devices.”

    Customers can buy the NXT product either directly through Verizon  or through XRS.

  • Topcon Announces GR-5 with Vanguard Technology

    Topcon Announces GR-5 with Vanguard Technology

    Topcon GR-5 with Vanguard technology.
    Topcon GR-5 with Vanguard technology.

    Topcon Positioning Group has released the GR-5 receiver with Vanguard technology, designed to optimize tracking and performance.

    “The GR-5 is a next-generation GNSS receiver, built on multi-constellation integrated technology pioneered by Topcon,” said Scott Langbein, director of product marketing.

    “Now with the inclusion of Topcon’s exclusive 226-channel Vanguard technology with Universal Tracking, and the power of full-wave Fence Antenna technology that provides multipath rejection in difficult environment, the GR-5 operates with unsurpassed sensitivity, tracking accuracy and performance.”

    In addition to Universal Tracking, Vanguard technology includes Quartz Lock Loop for signal processing in heavy vibration applications and Intelligent Tracking Optimization to select the best combination of available satellite signals.

    “At any time, end-users can track all available satellite signals and be assured of getting accurate measurements regardless of environmental conditions,” Langbein said.

    Additional features of the GR-5 include:

    • Cellular and radio: The GR-5 has both cellular and radio communications, which allows it to be used in radio-based RTK and network RTK systems;
    • Long-range UHF radio: The top-mounted radio antenna extends the range of RTK radio performance;
    • Operating time: GR-5 hot-swappable batteries are designed for full-day operation;
    • MAGNET Field: MAGNET Field software can be used with the GR-5 RTK system, providing the ability to share data to cloud storage and connect field crews to each other and the office.

  • Emerging Mobile Indoor Positioning Market the Subject of New Report

    According to a new report by Research and Markets, the winners in making and operating mobile phones will offer the most compelling new functionality, IPS being a major enabler. The winners in making, integrating and operating RTLS will reduce cost and improve usefulness, not least to encompass mobile phones and other mobile computing. The world’s largest companies are locking horns on this.

    Research and Markets has added the report “Mobile Phone Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS) and Real Time Locating Systems (RTLS) 2014-2024” to its offerings.

    The term Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS) primarily concerns location-based services on mobile phones where GPS does not work. The term Real Time Locating Systems (RTLS) primarily concerns locating people and things at a distance, securely, using second generation RFID. The subjects are converging with Apple, Samsung, Google, Nokia, Microsoft, Hewlett Packard and IBM clashing for the tens of billions of dollars of business that is emerging.

    This subject heavily involves short range communications, notably Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and inertial navigation and advanced RFID as it progresses to determining 3D position including orientation and line of travel. Emergency services, healthcare, retailing, manufacturing, logistics and many other industries will be transformed by what is becoming possible, Research and Markets said.

    The topics of IPS and RTLS embrace a value chain from research and consultancy to software, services, hardware, integration and facilities management. Mobile phone app developers and value added enhancements plus ecosystems of mobile phones, web services and more are also involved.

    Most of the development and use is in the USA, but other territories are racing to catch up. For example, the new Indoor Location Alliance came from Europe but has global players and companies, such as Samsung in East Asia, and is taking an exceptionally broad view from new phone design to RTLS in smart cities. Siemens in Europe and several Japanese and U.S. companies seamlessly integrate GPS outdoor navigation and services with IPS and RTLS.

    This report consists entirely of evidence-based analysis following seven years of conferences, masterclasses and reports on the subject produced by the PhD level IDTechEx analysts and team.

    The main features of the report, which is continuously updated, are the following:

    • Ten year forecast of the RTLS market 2014-2024, platform hardware vs system integration/services.
    • Full explanation of what IPS and RTLS are and how these technologies are evolving and converging, with detailed, original graphs and diagrams, largest orders landed and lessons arising. Threats, opportunities and company strategies are revealed.
    • Comparison of 105 organisations in the IPS/ RTLS value chain by country, basic measuring principle, standards, frequencies, protocol, range, accuracy, applications targeted and background information. Pie charts and graphs give analysis by parameter.
    • Comparison of 74 case studies of RTLS with many pie charts presenting the lessons arising.
    • Detailed original interviews carried out from mid 2013 with important organisations in this space.
    • Glossary of the challenging jargon, which is different between IPS and RTLS yet often refers to the same or similar things.

    For more information, visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/kphhwg/mobile_phone.

  • Spectra Precision Shows off New and Updated Products for Surveying

    Spectra Precision Shows off New and Updated Products for Surveying

    Photo: Spectra Precision
    Photo: Spectra Precision

    Spectra Precision introduced at Intergeo this week new and updated products to expand its portfolio of solutions addressing the needs of the mainstream surveying and construction markets. Intergeo 2013 is a geodesy, geoinformatics and land management trade event being held in Essen, Germany.

    “Earlier this year, we introduced a new reflectorless entry-level total station, the lightweight ProMark 700 RTK Network Rover and the Layout Pro construction layout software suite. With our latest additions, the Spectra Precision portfolio continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of our users,” said François Erceau, general manager of Spectra Precision’s GeoInstruments Business Unit. “Spectra Precision now offers one of the broadest and most complete portfolios of survey and construction products in the industry — from construction lasers and total stations to survey GNSS receivers and GIS handhelds — all from a single supplier that customers can trust.”

    New and updated Spectra Precision products include:

    • Spectra Precision EPOCH 50 firmware 4.81 – now supports RTK positioning using the Chinese BeiDou open service GNSS satellite signals. Adding the BeiDou constellation to the full range of GPS and GLONASS signals already tracked by EPOCH 50 further boosts the capabilities of this GNSS receiver to enable faster initialization and performance, even in conditions where satellite visibility is obstructed due to tree canopy or tall buildings.
    • MobileMapper 120 Decimeter Edition – this new kit, based on the MobileMapper 120 handheld GNSS receiver, includes the Flying RTK, GLONASS tracking and NTRIP correction options. With accuracy of 20cm or better, the Decimeter Edition kit is a competitively priced solution for precise Mobile Mapping applications.
      • ProFlex 800 firmware version 1.9 – now supports GLONASS-only mode and tracking of QZSS signals to meet the needs of specific markets (Russia and Japan, respectively). This updated firmware also improves RTK performance in VRS networks, particularly in challenging GNSS environments, through Z-Blade technology enhancements.
    • Layout Pro Field and Office software – a recent release of the Layout Pro field software added support for the FOCUS 30 Robotic Total Station, offering the highest level of productivity and accuracy in a construction layout solution. The Layout Pro version 2.1.1 update now includes language packs for major markets worldwide, in addition to many other minor enhancements. Customers with a current Layout Pro maintenance agreement are eligible to download this update from www.spectraprecision.com.
    • Survey Basic software for total stations – further enhancements to this entry-level software application make for the simplest starting point, with workflows that mirror the familiar Nikon-style FOCUS 6 user interface in a modern full-color touch-screen instrument (FOCUS 8). Further language packs have been added, including Czech, Traditional Chinese, Korean and Polish.
    • Survey Pro Field software version 5.4 –  the latest release of this award-winning survey field software includes many new features and enhancements such as:
      • Updated Digital Terrain Model (DTM) features and interface
      • Support for new GNSS constellations and an improved GNSS workflow
      • Additional Active Map enhancements that make it easier than ever to work directly from the map screen
      • Updated point staking routines and a new interface for building design point lists
      • A new Plane and Vertical Angle Offset routine
      • A new electronic compass display in various map screens
      • Enhanced total station and GNSS setup routines
      • An improved Code/Description entry and display system

    Customers with a current Survey Pro maintenance agreement are eligible for this update and can download the software from .

    • Spectra Precision Survey Office software v3.10 and v2.95 ­– both versions are companions to Survey Pro 5.4 field software and FAST Survey field software, and offer enhanced baseline processing with more reliable outlier detection and improved accuracy statistics. Additionally, version 3.10 features a new customized ribbon UI and is optimized for 64-bit PCs (with notably faster processing).

    These new and updated Spectra Precision products are now available for order through the Spectra Precision global reseller network.

  • u-blox M8 Multi-GNSS Platform Offers Concurrent Tracking

    u-blox M8 Multi-GNSS Platform Offers Concurrent Tracking

    Photo: u-blox M8
    Photo: u-blox M8

    u‑blox has announced the launch of its newest core positioning platform, the u-blox M8. The new chip forms the basis of u-blox’ upcoming line of positioning modules, which are able to acquire and track different satellite systems concurrently to achieve higher accuracy and reliability.

    Supporting all deployed as well as upcoming GNSSs, the platform is based on the UBX-M8030 concurrent multi-GNSS receiver IC which is able to track American GPS, European Galileo, Japanese QZSS, Russian GLONASS, and Chinese BeiDou satellites.

    Concurrent tracking of GPS (QZSS) and GLONASS or BeiDou, or concurrent tracking of GLONASS and BeiDou satellites increases performance for applications requiring maximum availability and accuracy. The chip is prepared for the European Galileo system through a future firmware upgrade once the constellation is fully available.

    The new platform will ultimately support special functions such as Automotive Dead Reckoning and precision timing to support a wide variety of vehicle, industrial and consumer applications.

    To further improve acquisition performance, u-blox’ globally available “AssistNow”assisted-GNSS service for accelerated positioning has been extended for u-blox M8 products; the service supports both GPS and GLONASS, and the validity of downloaded assistance data is now able to support offline operation for up to 35 days.

    “With the proliferation of multiple new GNSS systems beyond GPS, our u-blox M8 platform is designed to take full advantage of the increasing number of visible satellites to further increase accuracy and availability, particularly in urban and vehicle-based applications,” said Daniel Ammann, executive vice president, head of the Positioning Product Centre, and co-founder of u-blox, “At the same time we realize the ongoing requirement for extremely low-power and cost-sensitive portable applications where operation with a single GNSS system is more than sufficient. That is why we will continue to offer both u-blox M8 and u-blox 7 based products to the market.

    The new u-blox M8 chip is at the heart of u-blox’ next generation of positioning modules based on the company’s popular MAX, NEO and LEA module form factors.

    u-blox M8 chips feature low power consumption in concurrent reception mode, thanks to an innovative single-die architecture combined with sophisticated software algorithms. The extended supply voltage supply range and 1.8 V/3.0 V I/O compliance supports a wide variety of system architectures. Sophisticated radio architecture and interference suppression using active jamming detection ensure maximum performance even in GNSS hostile environments. UBX-M8030 chips are available in miniature WL-CSP (2.99 x 3.21 x 0.36 mm) and QFN (5.00 x 5.00 x 0.59 mm) packages. The chip is also available in automotive quality grade according to AEC-Q100.

    The new platform maintains backwards compatibility with u-blox 7 modules and QFP chip products which remain in the company’s portfolio as the industry’s lowest power standalone satellite positioning receivers. u‑blox’ capability of delivering GNSS technology in both integrated circuit and form-factor consistent modules provides maximum design flexibility and protects customers’ development investments over successive product generations.

    First samples of the multi-GNSS receiver chip UBX-M8030 are available for customer evaluation. Soon, module customers can easily migrate to the MAX, NEO, and LEA form factors, u-blox’ popular, industry-standard module form factors.

  • Juniper Systems’ New Rugged Handheld Features 4.3-Inch Touchscreen

    Juniper Systems’ New Rugged Handheld Features 4.3-Inch Touchscreen

    Photo: Juniper Systems
    Photo: Juniper Systems

    Juniper Systems has announced the availability of a new rugged handheld, the Archer 2. With radical improvements over the first generation Archer, the Archer 2 promises better overall performance with an astonishingly bright display, an extra-long battery life, enhanced GPS capabilities, and rugged IP68 construction.

    Juniper Systems will be showcasing the Archer 2 at the Intergeo 2013 conference from October 8-10 in Essen, Germany.

    According to the announcement, the latest generation handheld incorporates several new technological advancements. Sporting a custom 4.3-inch Illumiview high-visibility display, the Archer 2’s screen brightness has been well received by reviewers. Its battery features a unique technology inspired by the technology used in hybrid car batteries to prevent excessive battery drainage in low temperatures. Referred to as Overtime Technology, this Archer 2 super battery will last 20 hours and up on one charge.

    The new device is the first Juniper Systems handheld to feature a capacitive touchscreen for improved response and ruggedness. The Archer 2 also includes a glove-friendly numeric keypad for rapid data entry, a feature which many Juniper Systems customers highly value. Like other Juniper Systems handhelds, the Archer 2 is built to very strict standards at its ISO 9001:2008-certified facility, having been tested to MIL-STD-810G and given a top IP68 rating for dust and water.

    Photo: Juniper Systems
    Photo: Juniper Systems

    “We have been looking forward to the release of the Archer 2 for some time,” said Rob Campbell, CEO at Juniper Systems. “We have taken special care in addressing the needs of customers in the design of the Archer 2. It is a product of utmost quality, and the excellent reviews we have received on our Archer 2 beta units have made us very optimistic that the Archer 2 is going to meet our customers’ needs exceptionally well.”

  • European Ground Stations Enable Galileo Search and Rescue Training

    European Ground Stations Enable Galileo Search and Rescue Training

    Svalbard station on Spitsbergen in the Norwegian Arctic.
    Svalbard station on Spitsbergen in the Norwegian Arctic.

    The European Space Agency’s completion of a pair of dedicated ground stations at opposite ends of Europe has enabled Galileo satellites in orbit to participate in global testing of the Cospas–Sarsat search and rescue system.The Maspalomas station, at the southern end of the largest island of the Canary Islands, at the southern fringe of European waters, was activated in June. And this last month has seen the Svalbard site on Spitsbergen in the Norwegian Arctic come on line — the two sites can already communicate and will soon be performing joint tests.

    This speedy progress has enabled the participation of the latest two Galileo satellites in an international  demonstration and evaluation program — a worldwide test campaign for a new expansion of the world’s oldest and largest satellite-based rescue system, Cospas–Sarsat.

    The Maspalomas station in the Canary Island has an ESA-built Maspalomas Medium-Earth Orbit Local User Terminal (MEOLUT).
    The Maspalomas station in the Canary Island has an ESA-built Maspalomas Medium-Earth Orbit Local User Terminal (MEOLUT).

    Founded by Canada, France, Russia and the U.S., Cospas–Sarsat has assisted in the rescue of tens of thousands of souls in its three decades of service. Distress signals from across the globe are detected by satellites, then swiftly relayed to the nearest search and rescue (SAR) authorities.

    Now the program is introducing a new medium-orbit SAR system to improve coverage and response times, with the Galileo satellites in the vanguard of this major expansion.

    Supporting search and rescue is a separate function to Galileo’s main task of providing global navigation and timing services, but no less important.

    The second pair of Europe’s Galileo satellites — launched together on 12 October last year — are the first of the constellation to host SAR payloads. These can pick up UHF signals from emergency beacons aboard ships, aircraft or carried by individuals, which are then relayed to ground stations. There, the source is pinpointed and automatically passed on to a control center, which then routes it to local authorities for rescue.

    “The Galileo satellites, tested in combination with the same SAR payloads on Russian Glonass satellites as well as compatible repeaters on a pair of US GPS satellites, showed an ability to pinpoint simulated emergency beacons down to an accuracy of 2-5 km in a matter of minutes,” explained ESA’s Galileo SAR engineer, Igor Stojkovic.

    “Our in-orbit validation tests so far have been in line with expectation and beyond, giving us a lot of confidence in the performance of the final system, once completed.

    “And using a combination of satellites is just how the upgraded system will operate in practice, in order to localise distress signals.”

    Localization test performed from the Maspalomas MEOLUT on 29-30 July 2013 as part of Galileo's search and rescue in-orbit validation. Beacon locations obtained with four satellites are shown in black, while those using three satellites are shown in grey. More than 93% of all beacon locations, after only a single beacon burst has been received, are within the required 5 km from the actual beacon position.
    Localization test performed from the Maspalomas MEOLUT on 29-30 July 2013 as part of Galileo’s search and rescue in-orbit validation. Beacon locations obtained with four satellites are shown in black, while those using three satellites are shown in grey. More than 93% of all beacon locations, after only a single beacon burst has been received, are within the required 5 km from the actual beacon position.

  • Shipments of Wearable Technology Devices Will Reach 64 Million in 2017

    Google Glass
    Google Glass

    Sales of smart glasses, smart watches and wearable fitness trackers reached 8.3 million units worldwide in 2012, up from 3.1 million devices in the previous year, according to researchers at Berg Insight. Growing at a compound annual growth rate of 50.6 percent, total shipments of wearable technology devices are expected to reach 64.0 million units in 2017.

    According to the announcement, today wearable fitness and activity trackers constitute the vast majority of the shipments. By the end of the forecast period, smart watches are predicted to incorporate much of the functionality of these and will then be the largest wearable device segment. “A perfect storm of innovation within low power wireless connectivity, sensor technology, big data, cloud services, voice user interfaces and mobile computing power is coming together and paves the way for connected wearable technology,” said Johan Svanberg, senior analyst, Berg Insight.

    The first generation of products appeal to specific markets and certain use cases, but refinement in design, technology and connectivity will broaden application areas and speed up market adoption. Initially, the wrist is the most attractive location for wearable devices, which is shown by the success of the Pebble smart watch and the popularity of wristband activity trackers such as the Nike Fuelband and the Fitbit Flex.

    “However, today’s devices need to evolve into something more than single purpose fitness trackers or external smartphone notification centers in order to be truly successful,” continues Svanberg.

    Berg Insight predicts that wearable technology will shift from being smartphone accessories into becoming proper stand-alone computing devices. Furthermore, closeness to the body and always aware capabilities will enable them to be more than merely miniaturized smartphones. Google, Sony and Samsung have already launched products and other major players such as Apple and LG are expected to soon enter the market. Wide market availability of wearable devices also raises privacy concerns. “It is still uncertain where lines should be drawn, but as in the case with most new technology, individual users and solution providers have the responsibility not to misuse the capabilities enabled by wearable tech,” concludes Svanberg.

  • Trimble Offers New Version of Deformation Monitoring Software

     

    Trimble introduced today the latest version of its deformation monitoring software, Trimble 4D Control version 4.2. The new version of the monitoring software delivers enhanced communications with the Trimble NetR9 and new NetR9 Ti-M GNSS receiver, REF TEK seismic sensors and the Trimble S8 total station. It also supports geotechnical sensors, weather stations, level data and it provides velocity and trend computations as well as a calculation facility for mathematical operations. The interactive Web interface provides advanced alarms, data visualization and analysis tools. Site access is controlled by user login credentials.

    The announcement was made today at Intergeo 2013, being held in Essen, Germany, October 8-10.

    Trimble NetR9 Ti-M. Trimble also introduced a dedicated GNSS monitoring receiver, the Trimble NetR9 Ti-M, designed for real-time monitoring applications. This instrument is the fourth-generation of the proven Trimble NetR9 series of GNSS reference receivers, and is specifically designed for the monitoring market and supported by Trimble 4D Control software.

    Trimble REF TEK Sensors. Following the acquisition of REF TEK, now a division of Trimble and a provider of seismic sensors and data recording instruments, support for REF TEK accelerometers has been included in Trimble 4D Control version 4.2. Different variants of peak acceleration that are used in monitoring the effects of vibration on structures such as micro-seismic activity, proximity blasting or impact piling can be visualized and alarmed in Trimble 4D Control.

    Trimble 4D Control is a fully scalable and comprehensive software solution for both real-time and post-processed monitoring projects. The software solution is ideal for the long-term, automated monitoring of dams, bridges, buildings, support piers, large-scale construction and excavation sites, open pit mines, landslides, tunnels and other structures. Real-time management and control of the monitoring system is available via the Trimble 4D Control Web Interface on-site, online and around the clock from any location with Internet or Intranet connectivity.

    “To date, this advanced technology has only been available to end users of an automated monitoring system.  We recognized the need to provide this functionality across the full spectrum of monitoring applications,” said Ulrich Vollath, general manager of Trimble’s Infrastructure Division. “We are pleased to announce the launch of Trimble 4D Lite, a cloud-based subscription service which will make this solution available to small- and medium-sized monitoring projects. With the introduction of 4D Lite, Trimble’s monitoring solutions are now available for the full spectrum of monitoring projects, from small, non-permanent, campaign monitoring projects through to permanent, fully automated monitoring systems.”

    Trimble 4D Lite – Advanced Cloud Monitoring Service. 4D Lite is a cloud-based application that is designed with an interface familiar to existing Trimble monitoring technology users. 4D Lite is designed for surveyors, engineers and scientists to perform campaign monitoring of data/time series without the need to integrate directly with onsite hardware and sensors. Trimble 4D Lite can be used to meet campaign monitoring needs of installations on dams, bridges, mines, landslides, buildings and other natural and man-made hazards or structures using sensors to monitor health. Data can be integrated from a wide range of sensors. The data can be visualized and analyzed on a variety of interactive charts and scatter plots and the sensors can be viewed in context with the structure using a variety of backdrops including maps, plans or photographs.

    Trimble 4D Control version 4.2, the NetR9 Ti-M GNSS receiver and the 4D Lite monitoring service are available now from Trimble’s worldwide Infrastructure distribution network.

  • Infineon Launches GNSS Module for Mobile Phones

    Today, at the European Microwave Week tradeshow in Nuremberg, Germany, Infineon Technologies introduced the latest generation of its pico GNSS modules for smartphones. BGM1143N9 is a combination of a low-insertion-loss pre-filter and Infineon’s high performance low noise amplifier (LNA) in a TSNP-9 package. The tiny module features very high linearity, a low noise figure, and supports all navigation standards including GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou.

    With a footprint of 1.5 x 1.1 millimeters, BGM1143N9 is one of the smallest GNSS modules available in the market today. It requires 60 percent less board space compared to the previous generation. Size is particularly important for smartphones, since PCB space is a premium.

    Today’s mobile phones offer a wide range of features. Therefore, transmitter and receiver have to work together simultaneously without degrading each other’s performance. A GNSS receiver co-exists with transceivers in the GSM/ EDGE/ UMTS/ LTE bands that transmit high power in the range of +24 dBm. Due to its very high linearity the LNA integrated in BGM1143N9 effectively prevents interference from higher order harmonics and intermodulation products of the strong signal present in smartphones, thus ensuring reliable navigation.

    Furthermore, BGM1143N9 dramatically improves sensitivity compared to other solutions available in the market today. It features the lowest noise figure available in the market (1.45 dB) which increases the GNSS system’s sensitivity and improves time-to-first-fix (TTFF) and time-to-subsequent-fix (TTSF). This feature results in a much faster and continuous navigation and consequently much higher end user satisfaction.

    The new BGM1143N9 supports all navigation standards: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo as well as China’s BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS).

  • Trimble Adds Tilt Compensation to R10 GNSS Surveying System

    The Trimble R10 Surveying System.
    The Trimble R10 Surveying System.

    Trimble announced today several enhancements to the Trimble R10 GNSS Surveying System designed to drive field productivity to a new high. With sophisticated tilt-compensation technology, CenterPoint RTX correction service support, and updated field and office software, the R10 platform demonstrates Trimble’s commitment to driving improved surveying productivity.

    The announcement was made at Intergeo 2013, being held October 8-10 in Essen, Germany.

    “Innovations in techniques such as our tilt compensation technology can have a pervasive impact on the everyday surveying experience,” said Elmar Lenz, business area director of GNSS Solutions for Trimble’s Geospatial Division. “With our innovative approach to total surveying workflow, Trimble is redefining the way surveying work is done.”

    The Trimble R10 is now augmented to further speed GNSS field work. With its new internal tilt-compensation, Trimble SurePoint technology takes field efficiency to the next level. The system will automatically adjust for pole-tilt up to 15 degrees from plumb, saving time and reducing fatigue. With tilt compensation, surveyors can now utilize GNSS in more situations and with 100 percent measurement traceability.

    In addition, Trimble introduced its high-accuracy correction service, CenterPoint RTX, into the geospatial market with support in the Trimble R10. Powered by Trimble RTX technology, CenterPoint RTX is a subscription service that delivers real-time 4 centimeter (1.5 inch) or better corrections via satellite directly to the receiver without requiring the use of a base station, VRS network, or investment in additional hardware.

    Both Trimble Access field software and Trimble Business Center office software have been updated to streamline data flow and automate data processing. Faster in the field and more flexible in the office, Trimble’s premium GNSS surveying system enhances the entire surveying workflow.

    The updates to Trimble R10 GNSS System, CenterPoint RTX service support, Trimble Access version 2013.40 and Trimble Business Center version 3.10 are expected to be available in the fourth quarter of 2013 through Trimble’s Geospatial Division distribution network. For current R10 users, the tilt-compensation feature and CenterPoint RTX support will be available through a free firmware update.